The Weirdest Netflix Categories & What To Watch From Each Of Them

Aside from being known for shaking up how we consume media and shaking up how we describe trying to hook up with someone on our couch, Netflix is known for having some very weird categories of movies and TV shows. Some of them just seem way too specific and others are simple, but... odd. If you've scrolled through the streaming service and ever come across something like "Raunchy International Dramas Of The 18th Century", then you know what I mean.

But within these strange sub-genres are some hidden gems — and no, not from the "Hidden Gems" category, which also exists. For instance, you might not be drawn toward the "Movies for Ages 8 to 10" category immediately (especially if you're not ages 8 to 10), but you might find a nostalgic favorite in there. And while "Understated Movies" might sound like a turn-off at first — because what does that really even mean? — browse around and you will probably find something worth watching.

It's understandable, though, if you don't want to scroll and scroll through Netflix only to end up watching The Office again. So, to help narrow the process down, here are 11 of the weirdest Netflix sub-genres and suggestions of movies and shows to try watching from each.

Movies

Movies For Ages 8 to 10 — Ella Enchanted

Miramax on YouTube

This one definitely fits into the "Isn't that too specific?" category, but it's true that Ella Enchanted is a good fit for that very small age range.

Quirky Movies — Strictly Ballroom

TheWorldofTrailers on YouTube

Ugh, these movies are all so normal and straight-laced and basic, you think while perusing Netflix. At last, the Quirky Movies category pops up and you feel at home. Finally, someone gets you. If you're feeling quirky, check out Strictly Ballroom, Baz Luhrmann's debut feature, an over-the-top comedy about dancing.

Understated Movies — Clouds of Sils Maria

IFC Films on YouTube

While it's not strange to call a movie "understated," it's hard to imagine someone actively searching for one by that exact descriptor. But regardless of that, this sub-genre includes the movie Clouds of Sils Maria, which got Kristen Stewart the César Award (aka French Oscar) for Best Supporting Actress.

Steamy Movies — Y Tu Mamá También

Movieclips on YouTube

Sometimes you just want a steamy movie, and there are loads of them in this category from the International genre on Netflix. Y Tu Mamá También stars real life best friends Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna, along with Maribel Verdú, and is about a road trip, friendship, sex, and the fragility of life.

Raunchy Politically Incorrect Stand-up Comedy — Ali Wong: Baby Cobra

Netflix on YouTube

Want some politically incorrect stand-up, but also need it to be raunchy? Netflix has you covered, and Ali Wong's first stand-up special with the streaming service is an excellent and hilarious choice.

Critically-Acclaimed 20th Century Period Pieces — Atonement

Movieclips Classic Trailers on YouTube

This category is kind of tricky because it sounds like it'd be more specific and have less options than it does. But there are a ton of these, and they get nominated for Oscars. All. The. Time. If you're looking for drama, romance, war, baby Saoirse Ronan, beautiful 1930s dresses, and a mischievous and vengeful child, Atonement has it all.

TV

Oddballs & Outcasts— Chewing Gum

E4 on YouTube

Chewing Gum is a British comedy written and starring Michaela Coel. It follows twenty-something Tracey, who was raised very religious and conservative, but wants to learn more about the world — and sex in particular. Get it? She's an "oddball" and an "outcast".

Slow Burn — How To Get Away With Murder

IGN on YouTube

If you haven't yet seen How To Get Away With Murder, Netflix thinks it's good for a "slow burn." And with four 15-episode seasons available to stream, they're probably right.

Kids TV For Ages 11 to 12 — Bill Nye The Science Guy

SynysterShadow on YouTube

This is the original Bill Nye series, not the reboot. Netflix says is great for ages 11 and 12, but it's really great for everyone.

Teen TV For BFFs — Gilmore Girls

Netflix on YouTube

Whether you watched Gilmore Girls when it was actually on air or have never seen an episode, it makes for a great show to marathon. And, apparently, a great show for teens to marathon with their best friends.

Casual Viewing — The Toys That Made Us

Netflix

You might think that everything on Netflix is meant for "casual viewing," but there is actually a category for just that. It includes the Netflix Original seriesThe Toys That Made Us, which shares the history behind some of the most popular toys ever, including Barbie, G.I. Joe, LEGO, and more.

So there you have it. Eleven shows and movies to try out if you're sick of everything else you're coming across. And, hey, maybe next time to you see "Critically-Acclaimed 20th Century Period Pieces", you'll actually click through.